And They’re Off! Marathon Monday: A Global Turnout

It may be called the Boston Marathon, but Bostonians aren’t the only ones running it.

Runners and spectators from around the globe joined together for the 118th Boston Marathon. Hundreds of planes made their way into Boston and thousands of miles were traveled leading up to the race.

For runners, many months of hard work and dedication were put into this day. 26.2 miles is no walk in the park (literally), and preparation can be challenging and grueling.

All of this pays off once runners reach Boylston and cross the finish line.

“When I crossed it, I cried. This is my dream. For all the marathon runners of the world, the dream is of Boston,” said Chilean runner Diego Vanesuela.

And for many runners, it may be the last time they cross the finish line. Marathon participant Billy Lapidus says that this will be the last marathon he runs. He and many others felt this was a significant race to end on, considering the events of last year. Many see running this marathon as a symbol of the resilience and strength humanity still holds, even after an event as tragic as a bombing.

From Hopkinton to Copley, fans lined the roads and cheered runners on as they sped by. Many spectators wore Boston Strong shirts and blue and yellow attire, holding signs for loved ones and waving flags from their native countries.

After the marathon, runners could be seen in the Public Garden and Boston Common or walking throughout the city, smiles on their faces and gleaming medals around their necks. Regardless of whether attendees came from across the ocean or across the street, they all shared the feelings of unity and glory.

“Just the spirit of the event and all the others running, and all for the same purpose, keeps me going,” said Lapidus.

To hear more about how runners prepare for the race and celebrate after, listen to the full interview with runner Billy Lapidus from Birmingham, Alabama: